Hi from Isa and where do I get a prop for a J170

[GregatIsa]

Hi from Mt Isa, where my J170 has been parked for 6 months and despite covers on prop it was showing signs of bubbling under glass. Small 1mm or less blisters (many - displaying weave of cloth and easily felt with fingertips).

 

I removed prop, sanded v smooth, sprayed with clear lacquer, balanced, and replaced 2 weeks ago, and today test flew.

 

Two problems:

 

1 feels like vibration present, so maybe not balanced well enough

 

2 the blisters are back and can be felt again. Definitely smooth 2 weeks ago. Looks like air trapped under glass expands in heat. 42 C is common here.

 

Decided to buy new prop, several options:

 

1 Take original to Bundaberg when visiting next weekend and get a reconditioned one

 

2 Buy 3 blade Bolly as recommended in other posts

 

3 Buy Sensenich - don't know where from, or how much they cost.

 

Any advice anyone? And what is best value?

 

Finally, am only getting 85-90kt IAS lately, and recall it was 95-100kt 6 months ago. Is it likely that small irreguarities in prop surface would create that much inefficiency?

 

Greg at Isa